PhD Position in Experimental Physics

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The Department of Physics (https://www.umu.se/en/department-of-physics/ ) at Umeå University conducts strong research in the areas of organic electronics, condensed matter physics, nanotechnology, photonics, and theoretical physics. We are now announcing a PhD position for a project focusing on developing stable nanostructured materials for highly corrosive environments. Last day to apply is September 30th, 2022. Starting date is January 9th, 2023, or according to agreement.

Project description
We are looking for a PhD candidate interested in developing nanostructured metal oxides capable of withstanding highly acidic environments. The study of acid-stable metal oxides is important for the development of protective coatings, and electrocatalysts, where aggressive environments with low pH, corrosive substances, or anodic conditions are often present. Therefore, this PhD project involves fields such as material science, electrochemistry, and computational chemistry. The overall aim is to identify factors that contribute to an early metal dissolution under acidic and anodic conditions. 

The activities during the PhD studies involve the production of mixed-metal oxides using a state-of-the-art precursor solution plasma spraying, although other common production techniques will be explored. The PhD student will perform a complete material characterization (morphology, crystal structure, electrochemical behaviour, corrosion resistance, electrical conductivity). In the project we will also evaluate the viability of these materials as electrocatalyst support, including test on proton exchange membrane (PEM) water electrolysis stacks. In-situ spectroscopy studies will be also carried out to monitor changes in the mixed oxides during electrocatalytic and corrosion tests. 

Qualifications
To be admitted for studies at third-cycle level you are required to have completed a second-cycle level degree or completed course requirements of at least 240 ECTS credits. The recruitment procedure will follow the Higher Education Ordinance (Högskoleförordningen). Prerequisites include 240 ECTS credits (högskolepoäng) of higher education studies, of which 60 should be on an advanced/second-cycle level (Master’s level), or equivalent. In addition to these requirements, 120 ECTS need to be in physics. The requirements do not need to be fulfilled at the time of application but only at the enrolment. Fluency in English is mandatory.

The candidate should have documented experience in the synthesis of nanomaterials, Raman spectroscopy, X-ray powder diffraction, electron microscopy, and data analysis (e.g. Origin, Matlab). Experience with electrochemical characterization techniques is recommended. We seek a highly motivated doctoral candidate who wants to work in an inter-cultural and international environment, and who has the ability to work independently as well as part of a team.

Terms of employment
The employment is expected to result in a doctoral degree and the main assignment for the doctoral student is thus to be part of the research education, which includes participation in the described research project but also to take relevant courses. Teaching and other departmental work (up to a maximum of 20%) can be included. The employment is limited to four years at full time or up to five years if teaching and other departmental work is performed. The salary is fixed according to the established salary level for doctoral students. The employment starts on January 9th 2023, or according to agreement.

The application
The application should contain:
1.   A cover letter with summary of research interests and motivation (max. 2 pages).
2.   Curriculum Vitae.
3.   Certified copies of diplomas.
4.   Transcripts with grades, with English translation.
5.   Master thesis (or equivalent), and copies of other scientific publications (if applicable).
6.   Names and contact information to two reference persons.

More information
For further information contact the Principal Investigator of the project, Assoc. Prof. Eduardo Gracia, eduardo.gracia@@umu.se

You apply via our e-recruitment system Varbi. The application should be in English (preferrable) or Swedish. The deadline for applications is September 30th, 2022. Log in and apply via the button at the bottom of the page. All documents should be uploaded in pdf format. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for online interviews.

We look forward to receiving your application!